Overview
- Sales of bakery inputs fell about 45% year over year in the first quarter of 2026, according to the Centro de Panaderos in Merlo, Buenos Aires province.
- Local shop owners report customers buying smaller quantities and switching products, with La Plata bakers describing a sharp pullback in daily purchases.
- Rising costs for raw materials, utilities and fuel are squeezing margins, with some bakeries holding prices, cutting services and reducing staff to stay open.
- Industry representatives warn of record closures and job losses this year, while Cipan notes roughly 2,000 bakeries closed nationwide over the past two years with about 16,000 jobs lost.
- The sector is urging measures to revive demand and lower production costs, and expects the upcoming February inflation reading to push baked‑goods prices higher.